In awareness of the recent fire regulations being introduced in October, we thought we’d inform our customers about the importance of having a fire marshal on site.
One effective way to improve fire safety is by appointing a fire marshal. Within a workplace, fire marshals have specific responsibilities in both fire prevention and emergency response.
Although fire marshals are not mandatory following the Grenfell incident, they are often the best way to fulfill legal obligations towards fire safety, providing employees with peace of mind during fire emergencies.
What is a fire marshal?
A fire marshal is an individual appointed as the responsible person for fire safety within the workplace. Their responsibilities encompass all aspects of fire safety on-site, including fire prevention and coordinating responses in the event of a fire. Given the weight of their responsibilities, fire marshals are required to undergo specialized fire marshal training.
Fire marshal training covers various areas, including the role of a fire marshal, fire safety regulations, detection and response, means of escape, firefighting equipment, proper use of fire extinguishers, fire damage, and arson prevention. Upon successful completion of fire marshal training, candidates receive official certification as fire marshals. The duration of the certificate, typically three years, may vary depending on the workplace’s nature and level of risk.
What are the responsibilities of a fire marshal?
The responsibilities of a fire marshal broadly involve eliminating fire hazards in the workplace and ensuring the safe evacuation of everyone in the event of a fire. Regular duties may include checking fire exits for obstruction, ensuring fire extinguishers are in place and up to date, verifying the proper functioning of fire alarms and safety signage, and assessing periodic fire safety drills.
In case of a fire emergency, fire marshals are equipped with a Fire Marshal Kit containing essential items such as a reflective vest, torch, glow sticks, horn, and megaphone. Their actions during emergencies include directing co-workers to emergency exits, assisting those in need, ensuring everyone reaches the assembly area, gathering information about the fire, and sharing relevant information with first responders.
Do I need more than one fire marshal?
To ensure full compliance with health and safety responsibilities, it is important to assess whether you need more than one fire marshal. Factors such as the size of your premises and the number of people on site, including staff and the public, will determine the required number of fire marshals. Conducting a fire safety inspection can help determine this.
Do fire marshals need refresher training?
Fire marshals are required to undergo refresher training periodically to renew their certificates. Although these certificates are valid for three years, the frequency of refresher training depends on the nature of your workplace and the associated fire risks. Workplaces with higher fire risks will require more frequent refresher training to ensure continuous identification and mitigation of these risks.
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A great fire marshal will be someone who is organised, calm under pressure, and has great attention to detail. If you don’t have the capacity to train a fire marshal or want advice on your fire safety provisions, get in touch with SAMS – our trained fire marshals and inspectors can fulfil your obligations, and keep your workplace and colleagues safe.